After a three-year hiatus, King Ketelby James makes an incendiary return with new single, “BAD GAL”. His new single is not merely a release; it is a reclamation. It’s the sound of an artist who has spent his hiatus in refinement, emerging with a track that is a polished gem of musical craftsmanship. An irrepressible anthem for the queen who inspired it.
“BAD GAL” is a genre-fluid declaration, built on a foundation of pure Afrobeats but animated by a nomadic spirit. It simmers with the sun-drenched heat of the Caribbean, weaving in dancehall’s rugged swing and the sleek, international appeal of Afro-pop. It’s a soundscape that evokes a late-night drive through Accra as easily as it would a premium sound system in a London club. Of course, a king is nothing without his message. This is a “gangsta love anthem” in the truest sense: it possesses the swaggering confidence of a street classic, yet its heart reveals a profound, unwavering devotion.
King Ketelby James’s vocal delivery, a signature instrument of gravel and gold, carries the weight of truth and the warmth of soul. He isn’t singing at the subject of his affections; he is singing in service to her. The lyrics are a celebration, a litany of praise for the “Bad Gal” whose confidence, strength, and loyalty are the true objects of desire. He positions himself not just as an admirer, but as a connoisseur of her excellence, proclaiming a mutual respect that is as fierce as it is tender.
What truly elevates “BAD GAL” is its masterful balance of power and passion. The hook doesn’t just catch you; it ensnares you, a perfectly crafted earworm that promises to be the defining refrain of the coming season. “BAD GAL” is more than a comeback; it is a statement of evolution. Ketelby offers a refreshingly clear and joyous proposition: see the beauty, and celebrate it without reservation.
About King Ketelby James
King Ketelby James is a multifaceted artist, producer, and creative director who has built a strong reputation in Ghana’s thriving music and arts scene. Born in Switzerland with roots in Angola, Portugal, Mozambique, and India, he brings a rich cultural background to his artistry, blending diverse influences into his work. Before launching his solo career, James spent over 15 years as a member of the renowned rap crew JAS CRW — a powerful live act that performed on some of the biggest stages across Europe. Known for their dynamic energy and genre-bending sound, the group toured extensively throughout the continent, leaving a lasting impression on festival crowds and venues alike. Their final EP “Greetings From” remains a standout project — timeless, fresh, and influential to this day.
Living in Accra for the past five years, he has established a solid creative community and positioned himself as a key figure in the industry. He is the co-founder of ART CLUB GH and Giraffe Island, as well as the founder of SOULTRAIN AFRICA and STRG.studio — a creative studio originally launched in Switzerland, now operating globally with an additional base in Ghana. Through these platforms, he has helped shape Accra’s cultural landscape, bringing together artists, musicians, and creatives from various disciplines. His work spans music production, solo releases, and collaborations with exciting names in the industry, including Kwesi Arthur (GH), Fuse (UK), Danitsa (CH/FR), $pacely (GH), Twitch4Eva (GH), WES7AR 22 (NG), Naomi Lareine (CH), and Ghanaian Stallion
(GER/GH). Beyond music, James is making a significant impact in film and documentary scoring, crafting soundscapes that elevate visual storytelling.
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